Ashes 2025: Australia Maintains Unaltered Squad for Gabba Test
Australia has opted for a cautious approach by retaining their unchanged 14-man squad for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba, starting Thursday. This decision delays the return of key fast bowlers Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, both of whom are still recovering from injuries. Cummins, who missed the first Test due to lumbar stress, has shown improvement in training but will target a comeback for the third Test in Adelaide on December 17. Hazlewood continues to recover from a hamstring strain, and while he has been bowling, he is not yet ready for the pink-ball match.
The Australian selectors have chosen to maintain stability in their squad despite the absence of two of their leading fast bowlers. Pat Cummins, who has been sidelined with lumbar stress, has been training vigorously and bowling with the pink ball at the SCG. However, selectors have decided to prioritize his long-term fitness over a rushed return. Cummins will travel with the team to Brisbane but is expected to make his comeback in the third Test. Meanwhile, Josh Hazlewood is also unavailable as he continues his recovery from a hamstring strain. His recent training sessions have involved the red ball, indicating a conservative approach to his fitness timeline. Coach Andrew McDonald remains optimistic about Hazlewood’s potential return later in the series but has ruled out any premature comeback.
Brendan Doggett’s Impressive Debut
With Cummins and Hazlewood out, Queensland fast bowler Brendan Doggett is set to retain his place in the playing XI after a standout debut in Perth. Doggett made a significant impact by taking five wickets and demonstrating excellent control and temperament. His performance has solidified his position in the squad, and he will be crucial in the upcoming Test against England. Additionally, veteran opener Usman Khawaja has been included in the squad but needs to prove his fitness after suffering from back spasms that kept him out of Australia’s second innings in the first Test. Travis Head, who made headlines with the second-fastest century in Ashes history, remains adaptable regarding his batting position, and the team will reassess their lineup based on Khawaja’s condition.
England’s Preparation in Brisbane
As Australia prepares for the second Test, England has arrived in Brisbane but has chosen not to engage in pink-ball match practice. Only a few squad members, including Jacob Bethell, Matthew Potts, and Josh Tongue, are set to play against the Prime Minister’s XI. Captain Ben Stokes and the rest of the team will begin their training at the Gabba on Sunday, aiming to level the series after Australia’s eight-wicket victory in Perth. The decision to skip pink-ball practice has raised eyebrows, but the team is focused on regrouping and strategizing for the crucial match ahead. The second Test promises to be an exciting contest as both teams look to assert their dominance in the series.
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